International Students at Otago

Welcome to the University of Otago – an internationally recognised university located among the natural beauty of New Zealand’s spectacular South Island.

Otago is home to more than 2,500 international students from over 100 countries. Ranked 151st in the 2017/18 QS World University Rankings and in the top 100 in 13 subject areas, Otago scores the highest possible international quality rating for excellence and quality.

As New Zealand’s leading postgraduate research university, Otago offers unparalleled access to world-class academics in a full range of qualifications. We are committed to international education having collaborative teaching, research and exchange agreements with major institutions around the world.

The programme offered at Otago is world-class. It’s as good as anything you’ll find in Australia, Europe or the USA, and the living costs here are cheaper. I’m impressed with the facilities, the hospitality of the staff and lecturers, and the support that is available.

- Vinh Le, Master of Business Data Science, Vietnam

Most study takes place at our campus in Dunedin, a safe city that is easy to get around and has a relatively inexpensive cost of living. With abundant wildlife, jaw-dropping scenery, and great cafes and nightlife all within walking distance from campus, Dunedin has an energy and atmosphere that you’ll only find at Otago.

Our 20,000 students make up one fifth of Dunedin’s population. The town and the University campus developed together so Dunedin is one of just a handful of places worldwide where education is the main activity of the city. The University also has campuses in Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch and Invercargill.

Many of our international students choose to live in one of our residential colleges while others prefer to stay in university-managed flats. Whichever you choose, the support is there to help you get the very best out of your time at Otago.

Otago’s International Office provides specialist support for international students, welcoming you with a tailored orientation programme and providing ongoing help and support throughout your time here.

You work hard and you play hard and there are lots of organised community activities that are great for meeting people. I’ve got to know lots of Kiwis as well as lots of international students, and I really like how we are so different from each other.

Otago really accommodates all kinds of cultures and ethnicities and provides a great environment to study in. I think people of any race or any culture could fit in here and be very happy.